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Chicago is an easy choice IMO especially if you are an hourly worker that will be Unionized in Vegas. You might think that would mean better pay but with Union houses it also can mean you get stuck in a position and can stay there a long time. Very few of the restaurants that are connected with celebrity Chef's see them in the kitchen on a regular basis. Now if your going to Vegas as an Executive Chef or other professional staff position that's another story. Chi-Town has a zillion great establishments and many celebrity Chef's that actually work their own kitchens so for the right person that can be a killer learning opportunity. Chicago is a great city. Vegas is a tourist pit. Very different worlds and work environments.

I've been to Vegas a few times with the boys, and the thought of actually living there holds zero appeal for me. Never been to Chicago (it's on the list), but work issues aside (I don't know anything about unions and/or opportunities for work in the restaurant business), it would be my choice hands down. If I had family/friends in Chicago, it would make the decision even easier.

I grew up in Las Vegas, and while I haven't been to Chicago, I would pick Chicago in a heartbeat. There isn't much to do in vegas besides the casino's, and while it doesn't have the super cold winters Chicago does, it does have the extremely hot summers. Try walking outside at midnight and having it be 102 degrees, it sucks. Vegas was built for tourists, so if you've been, you've probably seen most of what it has to offer anyway. And no farmers markets that I've found either. Only reason that brings me back now is to visit family, or to pass through on my way to other locals. Just MHO, and why I live in Reno now.

I grew up in Las Vegas, and while I haven't been to Chicago, I would pick Chicago in a heartbeat. There isn't much to do in vegas besides the casino's, and while it doesn't have the super cold winters Chicago does, it does have the extremely hot summers. Try walking outside at midnight and having it be 102 degrees, it sucks. Vegas was built for tourists, so if you've been, you've probably seen most of what it has to offer anyway. And no farmers markets that I've found either. Only reason that brings me back now is to visit family, or to pass through on my way to other locals. Just MHO, and why I live in Reno now.

My wife grew up in Vegas and feels much the same way, I think. The only reason to go back is to visit family; the city itself holds no real interest for her.
On the opposite side of that, we have several friends who grew up in/used to live in Chicago and all of them really liked it.

I moved to Vegas in my early 20s For nearly 2 years, and I worked at one of those fancy big name celebrity chef restaurants. I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy. The money was decent, and a party was easily found, but what a miserable lifestyle.

If I moved to a job I would want it to be in Napa, but maybe that's just my private agenda creeping in.

Edit: oh and btw, yes I saw that chef on premise one time.... For about 30 seconds. I believe he said "Hey."

-Enjoy the ride. *** All statements made herein are my personal opinion and nothing more, regardless of tone or context. ***

Duckfat you are the man, this clears things up greatly. Also thanks for all the help with the resume and everything. Everyone on this forum has been a great help.

Always glad top help an aspiring Chef out. Shoot me a PM any time if you have a question. I've only been here a short while but I agree every one on this forum is very helpful and there's a lot of talent and experience here.

I am so excited and nervous to do this. I am moving 900 miles from where I am at. Also I am going to take a position cut and I am totally fine with that knowing my skills are not where they need to be at that level in Chicago. Thanks everyone for the help.